Why is My Calathea’s Leaves Curling? A Troubleshooting Guide

Known for their bold, artistic leaves, Calathea plants are prized houseplants. But sometimes those large, colorful leaves start curling, sending worried plant parents scrambling for answers.

Curled leaves on your Calathea are usually a sign that something is off with its care regimen. With some detective work you can diagnose the issue and get your plant back to health.

Here are the most common reasons behind curly Calathea leaves and how to fix them

Underwatering

Calathea prefer consistently moist (but not soggy) soil. If the soil dries out too much between waterings, the leaves will start to curl and crisp up around the edges.

Solution:

• Water more frequently, when the top inch of soil is dry.

• Feel the soil before watering, don’t just water on a schedule.

• For severely dried plants, give them a good soak by watering thoroughly from the top and bottom.

Overwatering

While Calathea don’t like to dry out, they also detest soggy soil, which suffocates roots and leads to fungal infections. Excess moisture causes leaves to curl and turn brown at the tips.

Solution:

• Check soil moisture before watering and only water when top inch is dry.

• Improve drainage by repotting in fresh potting mix.

• Pour out excess water that collects in saucer after watering.

Low Humidity

Native to tropical climates, Calathea prefer consistent moisture in the air. When humidity is too low, the leaves lose moisture and curl up.

Solution:

• Mist leaves daily or use a pebble tray.

• Group plants together to create a humid microclimate.

• Use a humidifier nearby.

• Avoid drafty areas and heating/AC vents.

Tap Water

The salts, fluoride and chemicals in tap water build up in the soil over time. This causes leaf tips to burn and curl up.

Solution:

• Use filtered or distilled water.

• Let tap water sit out overnight before using.

• Flush soil every few months to remove accumulated salts.

Cold Drafts

If a Calathea plant is placed in a cold drafty area, the leaves will react by curling up to conserve energy.

Solution:

• Move plant away from drafty windows, doors, or vents.

• Avoid setting plants in rooms under 70°F like basements.

• Position plants out of the path of air conditioning.

With some adjustments to their care, most curly Calathea leaves can be straightened out. Just be sure to provide consistent moisture, humidity, and proper temperatures. With high maintenance plants like these, prevention is easier than fixing problems after the fact!

Common Questions about Curling Calathea Leaves

Still have questions about your curling Calathea? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Why are the edges of my Calathea leaves curling?

If the leaf edges are crispy and curling, the most common cause is underwatering or low humidity. Mist regularly and water more frequently to hydrate the leaves.

Why is my Calathea Zebrina curling?

The Zebrina variety is especially prone to curling when humidity is too low. Be sure to mist regularly and keep away from heating vents to prevent curling leaves.

Why are my Calathea leaves curling after repotting?

Repotting can disturb roots and cause transplant shock. While the plant recovers, leaves may curl. Reduce watering for a week or two until it adjusts.

What does it mean if my Calathea leaves are half curled?

Half curled leaves can mean the plant is partially dehydrated. Curling will start on part of the leaf and spread if conditions don’t improve with watering and humidity.

Why does my Calathea only curl new leaves?

If new growth is curling while older leaves look fine, it’s likely an issue with the plant acclimating to your home’s environment. Gradually transition to match the greenhouse conditions it came from.

While a curling Calathea may cause concern at first, a little detective work should reveal the underlying cause, whether it’s underwatering, low humidity, or temperature stress. With a few tweaks to your care routine, you can get those elegant leaves unfurled again in no time!